Nunavut Travel Guide

Discover everything you need to know to plan a trip to Nunavut, Canada - natural attractions, culturally important museums, activities, itinerary, food, safety and more.


Introduction to Nunavut

Nunavut is a vast wilderness in the Canadian Arctic region that offers visitors a unique cultural and natural experience. With over two million square kilometers of land, this northern territory is home to a rich cultural heritage of the Inuit people.

Nunavut has a sparse population, and its vastness makes it an ideal destination for those looking for adventure, solitude, and a glimpse into the rugged lifestyle of the Inuit people. This comprehensive travel guide will provide you with everything you need to plan your trip to Nunavut.

List of Places to Visit in Nunavut

Culturally Important Attractions - Museums and Historical Places

  1. Nunatta Sunakkutaangit Museum: This museum in Iqaluit is ideal for those interested in the history and culture of the Inuit people. It showcases artifacts, art, and crafts made by the Inuit community from the past up to the present.

  2. Nunavut Legislative Assembly: The Nunavut Legislative Assembly building is a beautiful and unique building that symbolises Nunavut’s distinct political and cultural identity.

  3. Katittavik Town Hall: Located in Kuujjuaq, Katittavik Town Hall, previously Puvirnituq Cultural Centre, is a cultural centre that exhibits cultural artifacts, Inuit art, paintings and hand-made crafts.

Natural Attractions of Nunavut - Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Auyuittuq National Park: This park is known for its striking beauty and unique rock formations, including one of North America’s longest and most rugged glaciers.

  2. Sirmilik National Park: This park is perfect for visitors looking for remote wilderness and wildlife such as polar bears, beluga whales, and seals.

  3. Hudson Bay: Hudson Bay is the southernmost point in Nunavut and is known for its remarkable landscape, diverse wildlife, and extraordinary flora.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nunavut

  1. Akshayuk Pass: A challenging 97-kilometre trail through stunning scenery and breathtaking landscapes. This trail is highly recommended for visitors looking for a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience.

  2. Pangnirtung Pass: Located in Auyuittuq National Park, this trail is renowned for its awe-inspiring scenery, vibrant colours, and challenging terrain.

Best Things to Do in Nunavut - Activities and Tours

  1. Northern Lights Tour: Witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights in the Arctic sky and capture the unforgettable memories of your trip to Nunavut.

  2. Dog Sledding: Experience the traditional way of travelling used by the Inuit - dog sledding - through the frozen wilderness of Nunavut.

  3. Whale Watching: Take a guided tour to see the majestic beluga whales, seals, walrus, and other marine life in their natural habitat.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nunavut

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Nunatta Sunakkutaangit Museum and explore the city of Iqaluit.
Day 2 Travel to Auyuittuq National Park and hike through the stunning Akshayuk Pass.
Day 3 Witness the wildlife of Sirmilik National Park on a guided tour.
Day 4 Take a dog sledding tour through the frozen wilderness of Nunavut.
Day 5 Visit Pangnirtung Pass and enjoy breathtaking scenery.
Day 6 Go on a guided tour to see the majestic beluga whales and other marine life in their natural habitat.
Day 7 Explore the city of Kuujjuaq and visit Katittavik Town Hall.

Food and Drink Scene of Nunavut

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Arctic Char: A local fish delicacy, it can be served grilled, fried, or baked with herbs and spices.

  2. Caribou Stew: A popular Inuit dish made with slow-cooked Caribou meat, root vegetables and spices.

  3. Bannock: A traditional bread that is deep-fried and served with butter or jam.

Local Beverages

  1. Akutak: A traditional Inuit dessert made of whipped fat and berries served as a spread or topping.

  2. Cloudberry Wine: A sweet-tasting wine with a mild fruity aroma made from local berries.

Where to Stay in Nunavut - Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. The Frobisher Inn: Located in Iqaluit, it is the largest hotel in Nunavut and offers comfortable rooms, dining options, and a range of facilities and amenities.

  2. Ilagiiktunut Guest House: Offering visitors a chance to experience the traditional Inuit lifestyle, Ilagiiktunut Guest House is ideal for those seeking a unique and authentic experience.

What to Buy in Nunavut - Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Inuit Art: Nunavut is famous for its Inuit art, which includes soapstone carvings, prints, and sculptures.

  2. Nunavut Diamonds: Nunavut is home to the only diamond mine in Canada’s Arctic, providing visitors an opportunity to purchase an exquisite diamond or other unique gems.

Local Culture and Customs of Nunavut

Nunavut is home to one of the most dynamic and rich cultures on earth, and visitors to Nunavut should have an understanding and respect for Inuit culture. It is customary to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home, and you should also be aware of the community’s behaviour and dress code.

Best Time to Visit Nunavut

The best time to visit Nunavut is during summer from June to August when the weather is more temperate, and outdoor activities can easily be enjoyed. During winters, the northern lights can be seen regularly, but temperatures can be as low as -40 C.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nunavut

Do:

  1. Respect the local culture and customs.
  2. Dress appropriately for the weather conditions.
  3. Take a guided tour while exploring the wilderness of Nunavut.

Don’t:

  1. Be disrespectful to the local environment and wildlife.
  2. Ignore safety advice given for outdoor activities.
  3. Treat the locals as a tourist attraction.

Safety and Health

Safety in Nunavut

Visitors should follow safety guidelines recommended by their tour guides and the local authorities. It is advisable to bring warm clothing and equipment when planning outdoor activities in the Arctic.

Health in Nunavut

Visitors should be aware of the health risks associated with the cold Arctic environment. Ensure that you have all the required immunizations before visiting Nunavut.

Getting to Nunavut: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Nunavut

  1. Iqaluit Airport: The main airport of Nunavut.
  2. Rankin Inlet Airport: Serves the communities of the Kivalliq region.

Bus Stations Near Nunavut

There are no bus stations in Nunavut.

Other Options

Charter flights and boats are also available for transportation to Nunavut.

How to Get Around in Nunavut

The main mode of transport available in Nunavut is by airplane or boat.

Where to Go Next from Nunavut: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Greenland: A winter wonderland filled with icebergs, glaciers and the Northern Lights.
  2. Yellowknife: A picturesque Canadian city with a blend of natural beauty, urban amenities, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Nunavut offers visitors a unique travel experience, with a compelling mixture of unique culture, untamed wilderness, and incredible scenery. With this comprehensive travel guide, visitors can plan their trip to Nunavut with ease and have an unforgettable adventure.

Glacier on the northeast coast of Baffin Island Glacier on the northeast coast of Baffin Island Tanquary Fiord in Quttinirpaaq National Park Tanquary Fiord in Quttinirpaaq National Park Inukshuk (a traditional Inuit stone landmarker) at Rankin Inlet Inukshuk (a traditional Inuit stone landmarker) at Rankin Inlet Kaparoqtalik Glacier in Sirmilik National Park Kaparoqtalik Glacier in Sirmilik National Park Iqaluit stop sign Iqaluit stop sign Sylvia Grinnell Territorial Park near Iqaluit Sylvia Grinnell Territorial Park near Iqaluit Ovayuk Territorial Park Ovayuk Territorial Park


    Baffin Island
    Gjoa Haven
    Qikertaaluk Island
    Quttinirpaaq National Park
    Resolute
    Ukkusiksalik National Park